"Standing barefoot in a grassy patch of dandelions, Iris Phoebe Weaver excitedly begins listing the many ways the modest plant can be used medicinally and in cooking. "I just picked a bunch of dandelion flowers yesterday and threw them in vodka with some orange peel and some sugar, and that's my dandelion aperitif," Weaver said. "That will make a lovely mixed drink at some point.""
"Humans have been foraging long before they developed the agricultural tools some 12,000 years ago that quickly overshadowed the ancient act that helped sustain early humans. Yet foraging enthusiasts say the search for wild mushrooms, edible plants, shellfish and seaweed has grown more popular in recent years as people tout their rare finds. Others share knowledge on social media, and experienced foragers offer training to novices on safe and sustainable practices."
Iris Phoebe Weaver gathers dandelions to make medicinal preparations and a dandelion aperitif and leads nature walks teaching foraging. Foraging predates agriculture and has seen renewed popularity for finding mushrooms, edible plants, shellfish and seaweed. Enthusiasts share rare finds on social media and experienced foragers provide training on safe, sustainable practices. People forage for economic savings, reduced environmental impact, creative expression and community connection. Foraging can be practiced across urban landscapes, abandoned fields and forests, subject to private land permission or required permits in parks. The trend highlights abundant wild food resources and growing interest in reconnecting with local ecosystems.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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